While most of the country has gone back to some sense of normalcy, a few businesses and services are taking a little longer to return to normal.
The City of Johannesburg Libraries have been closed since the beginning of the national lockdown in March, and the frustrations of literary enthusiasts have grown with each statement saying that they would remain closed.
The latest Joburg Libraries statement, however, notified residents that as of Monday, 9 November, the 89 public libraries in the City would be re-opening, but not for every service.
The use of library books and library computers will not be allowed, and the facilities will only be open for the following purposes:
• Residents may return books from Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm, but no books may be borrowed
• Specific libraries will be open for study purposes from Monday to Friday from 9am to 12 midday, and from 1pm to 4pm, to allow for the cleaning and sanitizing of library spaces
The following Region C libraries will be open for the above purposes:
• Florida Library
• Boskruin Library
• Roodepoort Library
• Witpoortjie Library
• Cosmo City Library
• Horizon View Library
• Olivedale Library
Residents shared their frustrations on the Joburg Libraries Facebook page, wondering why the libraries have been opened if no one may use the books or computers. Another concern showed was why the libraries were only open for returns during the week, because people who work during the day may not be able to make it to the library by 4pm to return their books.
The City of Johannesburg has been contacted for comment on these issues, but by the time of publication, none had been received.
